The jointly developed vehicle uses an onboard Cisco software solution that seamlessly switches between available 3G, 4G and other wireless networks based on cost and quality of service preferences.

It also shows how auto manufactures can provide the same amount of network security that is available at home or in the office, adding that security against cyber attacks will become more important as more connected functions are brought to vehicles.

Guido Jouret, VP & general manager, Internet of Things group at Cisco: ‘We are now seeing a glimpse of how the combination of automotive and networking expertise can help overcome challenges in next generation connectivity and security. We look forward to working with the automobile industry to unlock the tremendous value of connecting cars to the Internet of Everything.’

The vehicle will form the basis for future collaborations on connected vehicles.

Ralf Lenninger, head of innovation and strategy at Continental’s Interior Division: ‘Connected vehicles are opening up a vast field of opportunities for services to make driving safer, more efficient and more comfortable. This is why we are looking at ways to connect the moving vehicle in a highly secure, fast and reliable way. By cooperating with Cisco, we can combine their expertise in software and network knowledge, with our knowhow in automotive hardware, embedded software and systems integration in order to create solutions for the connected vehicle of the future.’